It has being over a year since I last blogged but that is due to change this month (October) I return! Yes I return new interviews, mixes the whole lot. But until I am ready to post the 1st interview up I will just be getting things in place so keep an eye out and do not be alarmed by any changes that you may see on the site.
I Love Grime
Name: Mute
Age: 19
Occupation: Lazy Graphic Designer
Ends you rep: London/England
ILG: Tell me about the name, where did Mute come from?
Mute: Well basically when I was a yout, I used to be quiet init, you can say that I was shy even, like say if you’re with your bredrins & you’re all hype, I just used to say nuttin…Just PURE silence, course there was smiles & all sorts, but just silence, I’m much louder now lol, I’m the complete opposite really, but the name just stuck to me through the primary school days.
ILG: Many people are quite surprised at how quickly you have got recognition, how long have you being designing for?
Mute: I can’t actually be precise, I was on & off, it weren’t that serious back then, so I’d say around 2-3 years, I only took it serious last year though.
ILG: So are you a full time designer now or are you in education or employment?
Mute: Lol, nah, I’ll never be a full time designer, I wouldn’t like to be to be honest. I’m actually doing nothing right now, which isn’t very good…Money wise, I’m just like any other typical guy looking for a job right now.
ILG: You designed the cover for possibly the biggest release of 2010 Crazy Times 2 how did that come about?
Mute: One day being on GrimeForum, I saw that Titch was releasing his mixtape, whilst looking through the comments on the forum, I saw that not many people liked the design, it was horrible in my opinion, so I got in contact with Lockdown, it took ages though lol & I thank Mr. Slash & Flash G for that! To my surprise no other designers even hollered at Lockdown. Me being fussy, I pre-made the artwork, just for MY sake, but then I emailed him like a concept of the CD (What it would look like pressed up) & he was feeling it. There has been slight changes from the original due to Titch not wanting that pic lol, but it’s cool, he rang me up to say ‘thank you’ & other stuff. I’ll too be designing his next two mixtapes.
ILG: Next two mixtapes? Can you elaborate more on this do they have a release date yet or anything?
Mute: When Titch rang me up saying ‘thank you’ & etc he also mentioned that he was releasing 2 other mixtapes, I can’t actually remember their names but, he is working on them & also asked me to design them ones too, I’ll find out for whoever wants to know lol.
ILG: Since that release have you seen an increase on requests from artists for you to design their covers and other projects?
Mute: Not that I know of, it’s pretty much been the same to be honest.
ILG: Has that surprised you, was you expecting to be in higher demand and asked to do more high profile work on the back of Crazy Times 2?
Mute: Most people don’t really care who made the artwork the majority of the time, they only care about the content of the CD & what’s on it. When Titch released that CD, there weren’t much promoting going on, I have no clue why…But when I do design for someone ‘known’ people always ask me for free stuff & that’s a no no. Time is money.
ILG: What software do you design and how long does a cover take to make?
Mute: I use Photoshop CS5 & it really depends on how complex the design is, if it’s something simple, then I’d say around 30mins to an hour, but if it’s a mad ting, then it could take like 6 hours+. You can’t just rush them, you do have to take your time, it’s all about quality & not quantity.
ILG: All the work that I have seen from you has been for Grime projects, what do you think about the professionalism from Grime artists in regards to their releases and other ventures?
Mute: If they were passionate about music, they’d take their time to push out their work for many people to hear it & will market it for their benefits & the love of music, most artists are like that, but then again you do get them people who just do it for the money. So I can’t really say who’s professional or not.
ILG: In a average week how many requests do you get from people asking for you to design there next CD/Mixtape?
Mute: I only get like 2-3 a week, only because I’m kinda moving away from designing & moving to motion graphics, but I’ll still be doing this, all you gotta do is holler at me.
ILG: For those unaware what is motion graphics and what kinda stuff can we expect to see you making?
Mute: You know all the effects SB.TV & Toxic TV have done, I’m basically gonna be doing that sort of thing & no, I’m not gonna go to do a ‘TV’ sorta ting, I’m just working on mini films & music videos for myself & my bredrins mainly…So you won’t be seeing much graphic design going on from me.
ILG: Have you ever designed a cover and believed it was a masterpiece and then being told its not good enough or it is not the kind of thing I want?
Mute: Of course, I get this all the time. It really bugs me when a client wants something, but they don’t know what & then they say to me ‘Do what you think looks best’ I do this, design for however long it takes, finish it, email them. When they I get an email, they’re like ‘I don’t like it, I want this, I want that’ I’m like ‘For f*ck sake’ like, why couldn’t they tell me that they wanted that in the first place, it would of saved me a lot of time, but at the end of the day, they’re the ones paying you & you gotta do what they ask.
ILG: What is the process when you design a cover do you have creative freedom or are you sent templates or does it vary from client to client?
Mute: It’s just freedom really, most clients give me a template of what they want, then I create it with stocks, images, text & manipulate them to get the final cover.
ILG: Out of all the covers you have made what is your personal favourite?
Mute: Hmmm… Well I think that ‘Skilzie – Myself’ is a nice cover, it looks more like an album cover, than an actual mixtape. Yh, that’s my favourite lol
ILG: What Album/Mix Cd do you think has the worst artwork?
Mute: Out of all the CDs out there? I can’t say…But in Grime, I’d say Devilmans Mixtape – San Andreas, it’s terrible, it’s just simple copy & paste.
ILG: I understand you are also designing clothes now, how did that come about?
Mute: This was just really a personal thing in the beginning, I made a couple ones offs just so I could rock my own clothes for once, instead of wearing all these other known brands. Imagine seeing something you created & seeing other people wear it. It’s just a good look. I will be collaborating with other brands & people very soon, keep your eyes peeled.
ILG: When will the T-Shirts be available and where will people be able to buy them from?
Mute: They are available right now, but we only have the ‘I’m colour co-ordinated’ ones right now, medium & large available, free sticker, mixtape & free postage with every order. I will be stocking a limited amount of new clothes that are coming soon, including a J. Dilla t-shirt. (All money will go the J. Dilla foundation in Detroit).
ILG: What are your future plans and what are your aims for 2011 and the remainder of 2010?
Mute: Future plans…Hmm, well right now I’m working with one of my bredins, and some of you may know him as ‘Craiigg’ (featured on P. Moneys & Blacks CDs).We’re just creating music videos, mainly to help his music career much more. As for 2010, will this be the end for my designing side of things? Well not fully, but let’s just say I won’t be around as much as I am right now.
ILG: Who do you get advice from if you are unsure on a piece of work you have done is there love between Designers or are you fierce rivals?
Mute: All the designers I know myself are all new to this, so they can’t really help me on anything, but my bredrins do help me out a lot, especially Flash G lol, seeing as we both have a f*cked up sleeping pattern, but yh.
ILG: What other designers do you think are currently doing a good job?
Mute: Personally I’d say people like David Kelly, Skrilla, Kid8 are the one’s who are on it right now, I like DKs style & Skrillas & Kid8s work is just a madness, I’d soon be with them if I keep at it.
ILG: Any last words and shouts that you want to make?
Mute: I’d like to thank everyone who has been involved with my projects & everyone else who has supported me. I’d like to big up people like Flash G, Avalanch, Jay Kast, Untitled, Omar Days & the rest of the mandem & also big up yourself!
You can contact Mute on:
www.Twitter.com/MuteML or http://www.Facebook.com/Mute91
You can purchase your T-Shirts here on: http://www.MuteClothingLDN.bigcartel.com
The much anticipated This is UK GRIME compilation is finally released today. Make sure you get your copy from your favourite retailers and support the cause. The CD features all of the Grime scenes heavy hitters this is a solid release I assure you. Go and get a copy NOW!
If you want to win a copy of the new compilation then answer this question and send your answers to ilovegrimedj@hotmail.co.uk the winner will be notified on Friday
What is the name of the producer who made Woo Riddim?
1) DaVinche
2) S-X
3) Silencer
Name: King James the 1st.
Age: 8 days BW.(before Wiley)
Occupation: Mc/Artist
Ends you rep: London..All over.
Career Highlights: This interview.
ILG: You are now back with Modern Warfare, where have you being prior to this release?
B-Live: I’ve been doing what I’ve always done. Hotting up raves and parties all over the world.
ILG: You are also known as Evil-B who do you prefer to be B-Live or Evil-B?
B-Live: I don’t have a preference. It’s all me. I am him and vice versa. I love what I do.
ILG: Many Mc’s have vanished from the scene, what is the key to a long career, how have you managed to stay relevant for so many years?
B-Live: Keep evolving, listen to who is firing at the time and compare what your doing to them. If your below par or would be embarrassed by them if you were b2b then your swag and you will die quickly.
ILG: Grime or Garage?
B-Live: Grime for spittin and Garage for alot of other stuff mainly woman, but still a old school garage rave is a vibesers if the Djs playing the right music.
ILG: In recent years the music we love has had alot of bad press, being a performer have you ever worried about your safety whilst performing at a Garage or Grime Event?
B-Live: Around 2003-2006/7 there were shots at almost every big Garage dance, people running and screaming left right and centre. It’s natural to be concerned about guns because bullets don’t have names, but more time you just have to remember that it’s professional I’m there to do a job. I concentrate on that.
ILG: What are your views on form 679 do you think it is needed and has it affected you?
B-Live: The last thing the police need is for us to take these events underground. So if they are worried about an event they should offer a presence at the venue. Shutting down events because they have heard a rumour or becuase a Dj is playing there is counter productive and effecting how men feed their children.
ILG: You have being tearing raves up for years, what club night will always stay with you and what made that night so memorable?
B-Live: Gas Club in Central London. Only a small venue it held about 300, Me and EZ done a madness in there so many times, people banging down the walls and the cage of the Dj box. Sidewinder at Sanctuary played a huge part in the birth of Grime. I’ve seen alot there, someone made the roof convertible in there for me once haha. That was the maddest reaction to a bar I ever had. Eros in Enfield because it was the spot in North for a while. I used to be a King in there, for a while that was my favourite venue.
ILG: Many people would like to know what is happening with Modern Warfare, is it getting released and what are your future plans?
B-Live: Modern Warfare 1 and 2 will be released on an EP on September 6th through Logan Sama’s label. Also a hood shoot coming for that soon. Me and Skepta have already filmed our parts.
ILG: The remix for Modern Warfare features Skepta and the Newham Generals how did that link up happen and what was it like working with them?
B-Live: It’s mad, Footise and Dee have been involved in this music for as long as I have. Apart from Wiley, Newham Gens are the only 2 other Mcs I can remember starting as young as I did. They used to spit over Garage as well. When Grime branched off and we had to make choices they chose Grime and I stayed with Garage. We all became bosses in our fields so when the time was right I knew I had to holla at them. Everyone on the remix is a boss.
With Skepta it’s kinda mad how that worked out. He used to go to my brothers school, and they were all wrapped up around music when they were young, I think they even made a couple of dodgy old tapes haha they would be gold dust now. I never knew him then, I used to listen to his Dj shows and listen to him rapping over beats that he was playing while he was DJing. I used to think WHO IS THIS GUY. I knew about his Meridian movements etc. I heard his productions and I wanted to work with him. Sometimes he would holla me for guest list or meet me outside Rudolfs in Tottenham if I was working there, it was always a bless vibe, then 2 years ago we started rollin out just a bredrin vibe, no music. By this time he was already a Grime boss, so when I done the remix I didn’t think who to ask, I knew I had to holla him and it happened exactly how it did on the tune, he came through and murdered the tune.
ILG: What are your views on the Grime Scene do you think it will be out around for years to come or do you think the paper chase will be it’s downfall, as many respected and key figures from the scene are now making tunes with aims of getting to the top of the charts?
B-Live: I don’t know what people mean by selling out? If I go and make an Electro tune or a Hip Hop tune with a Pop chorus would people honestly think I was doing it for money? I make music that I like, so what if I like Electro. Too many youngsters wanna believe that these artists sit at home in some dark world selling skengs and listening to gun man music all day. Most mandem are normal people who enjoy all aspects of music, Grime has offered them the opportunity to work with some huge producers etc, who’s gonna waste that? I don’t know who people are talking about when they talk about selling out. That’s nonsense to me, you have to give me an example because I don’t see no grime/ex grime artist signing the Macerena, That would be selling out!
ILG: By selling out I mean Mcs who claim they are Grime then when a deal comes along they no longer do grime and forget the fans and people who supported there music at the very start of there careers the ones who gave them motivation and helped kick start there careers by buying there early mixtapes and seeing them at events and raves?
B-Live: How does anyone know they weren’t makin that type of music while they were making Grime? Thing is people have to make a living, the same people complaining about artists signing deals are the same people who illegaly download music. I wish people would just say names when it comes to this shit because I don’t know who has just gone and sold out, Skepta? Definitely not he makes music he likes? that I like so who cares if its not grime all the time, it’s music I can vibes to and he still puts out grime, So who then…Tinnie? he wasn’t really involved heavily in grime anyway? Tell me who it is?
ILG: Over the years have you being able to live off booking fees or have you ever had to juggle your music career with a job?
B-Live: I’ve always had to hustle, but it’s always been music, when all the raves were getting locked off because of gun culture it hurt my P so much. I had to revert to doing stuff I swore I wouldn’t do again, but music has been good to me, Its been the longest relationship I‘ve ever had.
ILG: Many people believe you and Mc Viper b2b are the best Mc combination of all times what was it like working with him and do you have plans to work together again?
B-Live: It was never a on purpose thing with me and Vipes, it was just he was coming through at the same time as me, when I first came into Garage he was a boss for me at them times. We were the beginning of a new era. We were attacking Mcs who spoke a bit about violence and street life. The music changed with us to, the beats became less soulful and more Mc orientated. So Solid are hugely responsible for what UK Mc’s are now and the way the games turned out but some people won’t know that so are me and Viper. We changed alot. When we came through it was us, HLC and Preshus really, PAUG and So Solid came a lil after us. We bridged the gap between the old skool Mcs and Grime.
ILG: What is your favourite tune of all times? (garage/grime tune)
B-Live: MJ Cole-Sincere. Everything else is 2nd, there’s not enough space here for the answer.
ILG: Who would you say is the top Mc in Grime at the current moment in time?
B-Live: There isn’t one, there’s a few. Ghetts, P money, Skepta will always be a boss. Dee & Foots, Frisco, JME to be honest, I could name about 20 names. I heard Maxsta recently and I thought he was good.
ILG: The summer season is near enough over, what is your favourite island and what are your top holiday tips?
B-Live: Ayia Napa. Water, food and condoms.
ILG: Do you have any regrets about your career is there anything that you wish you did differently?
B-Live: Not regrets really, I remember along time ago, I was in Denmark with Wiley and Maximum and Purple on a madting and Wiley said to me ‘you should be over here with us’. Meaning I shouldn’t of done Garage and should of done Grime. I don’t have any regrets about grime. I done Merkers in 2004, but I never got fully involved. Garage paid me well and I love beautiful woman haha. Grime was a tiny scene back then. Anyway I‘m here now and I’ve got alot to do.
ILG: What is the future for the Grime scene and what do you think of the Dubstep scene?
B-Live: The future for Grime is bright, Grime is honest street music. Certain man need to lay off talkin about AK47s and Bazookas in every bar, but the best music will and always has come from pain. Grime will never die Its owned by the streets. I like Dubstep its like slow drum and bass to me.
ILG: What do you think about gun and knife crime who is to blame the government or are people just cold and heartless?
B-Live: Life is about choices and that’s the realest talk I can give any human. Choose wisely. Beef gets people hyped like a drug, but when the drug wears off you will be the only one facing the come down. Don’t let it be 25 years in a cell.
ILG: The new football season has just started who will win the premiership and what team do you support?
B-Live: Man Utd will win it this season I think. I support the realest team in the world, THE ALMIGHTY TOTTENHAM HOTSPURS and before any gooners start hyping, I’m from north London, Tottenham and other places. NONE OF YOU ARE FROM ARSENAL.Cha
ILG: What did you think of Englands performance at the World Cup, What went wrong?
B-Live: Everyone stopped being sore, maybe we could play ball, but the brudder with the wedge jawside needs to do one.
ILG: What words of advice would you give to young Mc’s who are trying to make it?
B-Live: Dont copy anyone, listen to everyone and never give up.
ILG: Clashing is a big part of Grime, over the years I do not recall you having any lyrical wars if a Mc sent for you would you reply or do you have any plans to send for any Mc’s in the future?
B-Live: People have slyly sent for me. No one came out and said my name fully. For me to clash someone, they would have to be bigger than me or be a boss. I would never retaliate to someone who I couldn’t benefit from. I’m gonna send for Faction G soon. On a real though I can only thnk of 3 names that could help me raise my level.
ILG: What is a normal day for B Live what do you do on a daily basis?
B-Live: I don’t have normal days. Everyday is something new and fresh, I could tell you about the week I‘ve had but I think Shorty would be upset. But this Saturday I fly out to tour Malia and Zante with Maximum and Shorty then back home on Wednesday to play a Drum and Bass rave that same night. On Friday night I’m in Norwich then I fly out to Germany on Saturday for another show. (Week begining 30 August 2010)
ILG: That sounds like a very hectic lifestyle is it difficult to manage family time and what do you miss the most when you are away from home?
B-Live: My daughter and my bed
ILG: You have stayed true to your roots unlike many others what do you think about people who forget and neglect there roots are they sell outs?
B-Live: True to my roots? What are my roots? I love all music, if I could make it all, all genres then I would, would people call me a sell out then?
ILG: I want to seduce a lady im into, what advice would you give me i’m considering Nandos and maybe a film is this approach correct or is my game all wrong?
B-Live: Nandos to ur nice up a girl? Cuz…lol…Depends fam, I cant really help you…I don’t know what kinda girl your dealin with.
ILG: She is the sophisticated type 21 years old a sexy browning still, I just want a beat but she is on that im not easy playing hard to get vibe I just wanna nice her up and get in there, you must have some advice imagine im Faction what would you say to him?
B-Live: Hahahahaha you don’t wanna know what I would say to Facts, but still. If shes acting like a princess that means she wants to be treated like one, Tek time, nice her up then when you get her into bed just make sure you give her the wickedest ting.
ILG: What do you think about artificial breasts being given away on the NHS?
B-Live: I know a few MCs that should cop a pair from the amount they’re bitching.
ILG: I get the feeling your not a fan of Twitter very much?
B Live: Nah I love to read twitter if people are catching jokes, talking about music or being productive, I hate the subliminal shit and the internet threats dickhead ting.
ILG: Any last words shouts, big ups and websites you wanna plug
Faction G, BBK Fam, PHM Mandem, Slaughterhouse and everyone doing positive shit. Love dat…Peace.
Make sure you follow B-Live on Twitter and buy the latest release Modern Warfare which is out now
Download The Skeng Daddy EP NOW!
A full write up will be added later on today, but for the time being download and enjoy and look out for the interviews that are on way. Tell a friend I LOVE GRIME is back!
As it is Christmas I thought I would be a nice blogger and give you some freebies, first to come out of my stocking are some EXCLUSIVE tunes from Moony who was the first person to be interviewed on my blog, read the Moony interview here!
Have a Moony Christmas (Download link click here)
My second present is the latest installment from Merky Ace another CD for your listening pleasure from this very hard working Mc and believe me this CD is excellent so make sure you download it and if you have not already check out the Merky Ace and M.I.K interview here!
During the festive season at some point I will be putting up a mix that I hope to record later today and also a new set to be added to the downloads section. If all goes well there will also be a HUGE interview up on Boxing Day for you to read when you get back from the Sales but this is out of my hands as I am waiting on the record label to contact me and give me the go ahead but fingers crossed.
Enjoy your festive season, Eat lots and stay blessed. I LOVE GRIME
Name: Skeamz
Age: 20
Occupation: Producer
Ends you rep: North London
ILG: Explain to me how you got the name Skeamz?
Skeamz: You know what, it comes from when I was younger and I always cheated on chicks lol (realist talk) and I got called scheming by one chick so I thought ok cool, chopped it up, added a z and misspelled it and got Skeamz.ILG: Alot of people believe that your beat got Chipmunk where he is what is your current relationship and do you have plans to work again?
Skeamz: To be honest I aint spoke to Chippy in a while you know, Chips a cool guy and I respect what he’s doing, iI rate him highly, as for me being the reason he is where he is, you could say the same for me, we helped each other out a lot in different ways, I would work with chipmunk again if he was on it. Lets see what the future brings.
ILG: What was the first tune that you made?
Skeamz: Arrghhhhh, ummm i’ve made bare tunes lol ….. I Think it was called Skeaming Riddim. It was a freestyle beat , I think Double S jumped on it.
ILG: I understand that aswell as being a producer you work is this because you feel it is not possible to make a substantial amount of money to live on from Grime Music?
Skeamz: If your signed up to PRS then it depends on how much work your willing to put in, I mean if your stuffs being banged on kiss week in week out or on albums etc then it can be well off for you, and also selling your beats to people aswell is a nice little income if you’ve got regular customers, not enough people buy beats though!
ILG: What is your proudest achievement since you have been doing producing Grime?
Skeamz: I would say working with Wiley….. Because when I started I used to listen to Wiley a lot, he is the pioneer of the scene itself, so I consider myself very blessed.
ILG: Who is more important the MC/DJ/Producer?
Skeamz: Producers, without a doubt, without beats there wouldn’t be Mc’s or Dj’s ….. but then its all a big circle isn’t it ?
ILG: I did a youtube search and was amazed at the amount of tunes that you have made do you have plans to release a Cd?
skeamz: I’ve had plans to release a Cd for like a year now, I think 2010 is the year your going to hear a lot from Skeamz. I got a good relationship with most of the scene now so its just a question of me dishin out the right beats to people and getting tuff vocals back. But I defiantly want to get a Cd out in 2010 !
ILG: You recently made this tweet “Master shortie is shit , taio cruz is shit , pop music is shit , anyone who done grime and is now makin pop is shit ,safe!” So what do you think of Tinchy, Wiley and Chipmunk?
Skeamz: I Think Master Shorty Is Shit. I Swear I saw him say he was the best Uk rapper on twitter ? some joke ting. But you know what, I will admit I said pop is shit, I respect what them man are doing cause I know Chippy and Will but its just not my personal preference to listen to pop music, Stryders doing the most, but I rated him more when he was on this “tings in boots” tip and not these funny man pop songs!
ILG: What are you views on illegal downloads?
Skeamz: Its just one of those things you kno! its annoying when its your music cause your losing out on money that you worked hard for, but at the same time it gets you a lot of publicity if your unknown. It works two ways. But still STOP DOWNLOADING ILLEGALLY …
ILG: What was the last thing you downloaded?
Skeamz: Absynth & Massive (Plugins)
ILG: Have you ever considered being a Mc?
Skeamz: When I was in year 11 I tried it for a hot sec , I was D.E.A.D. Infact I was dead at music fall stop back then
ILG: You have worked with a lot of big Mc’s who was the hardest to work with?
Skeamz: None you know, its more a case of just making a banger, if its a banger they wont long it off, although sometimes i’ve had to wait a while for a vocal from people but it happens I guess!
ILG: What software do you use to make your beats and what advice would you give to up and coming producers?
Skeamz: I use Fruity Loops 9, I used to use 8 but 9 is better somehow, I cant tell you how because I don’t know lol. In respects to advice, id say jus keep doing your thing, if anyone tells you your dead keep going, everyone used to be rubbish when they first started! MOST IMPORTANTLY, be original !
ILG: What Producers are you feeling at the moment?
Skeamz: Silencer, Teeza, Goose, G.Tank
ILG: What would you say has being the most memorable moment in Grime history?
Skeamz: Ummmmmmm ,I don’t know you know that’s a hard one
ILG: 2010 is fast approaching what are you plans for the new year?
Skeamz: I would say musically 09 has been very quite for me, but that’s because i’ve had a lot going on, so i’m going to flood the scene in the new year, vocals from Mc’s and instrumentals! I got big plans man I jus need to turn them into real life!
ILG: What was your first introduction to Grime?
Skeamz: Wiley – Eskimo (Instrumental) Oh My God , Don’t Get Me Started !! Oh and Dizzee Rascal – Street Fighter (Instrumental) when I heard those tunes I was like right this music is hotttttttttt !
ILG: What Grime Mc would you most like to work with and why?
Skeamz: I Would Say J2K, he’s sick! He’s a very talented guy, his flows nuts and I like the energy he brings to tunes!
ILG: How often do you hit the studio and make tunes?
Skeamz: I Make Tunes In The spare room in my house I got a little set-up, nuttin big but it works, i’m in studio when I can be! I do try!
ILG: Who will win the 2010 World Cup?
Skeamz: England !
ILG: Georgi Kinkladze or Paulo Di Canio?
Skeamz: You Went In! Di Canio!
ILG: If there was a Lord Of The Producers who would you send for?
Skeamz: Whoever I was put up against! nah but I could send for anyone, you’d be surprised the way I have some producers styles on smash!
ILG: Nike air max 87/90/93/95 or 97?
Skeamz: 87’S are sick i’ve got a good 6 pairs
ILG: What do you think grime is missing? (live events/sets/radio)
Skeamz: Raves! there used to be bare Grime raves but one by one they’ve all disappeared!
ILG: What do you think of abortions are you for or against them?
Skeamz: I think its one of those ones were you and the person who’s pregnant need to talk, I wouldn’t say I was against them
ILG: In 5 years will we have a grime scene?
Skeamz: As long as we don’t get a grime version of Soulja Boy
ILG: You had a track on the Wiley album how did you hook that up?
Skeamz: Its weird , it was actually DJ Maximum who said to me yeah you got any riddims for wiley so i made one , messaged wiley , and he was feeling it , that guy works soooo fast, imagine like he banged it out like the next day! we weren’t going to release it at first but thought we should see what response it got, it got some good feedback so he told me it was going on his cd! the rest is history
ILG: What does Skeamz do on a daily basis what is your daily routine?
Skeamz: I live a hectic life! I work full time as well as being Skeamz, so id say, I wake up, go to work, come home, chill with the misses, and make beats, go sleep, repeat it all over again! its mad!
ILG: Big ups:
Skeamz: Big up Goose and Dj Merciless, hang tight everyone doing there ting man!
ILG: Who do you think I am?
Skeamz: I Aint Got A CLUE!
Make sure you check out Skeamz on myspace to hear some of his latest beats, follow Skeamz on Twitter to get updates on his future releases and see what he is getting up to. Facebook users make sure you add Skeamz aswell!
Name: Untitled
Age: 24
Occupation: 8-8 Soldier
Ends you rep: Too old to rep any ends
ILG: How did you get the name Untitled what is the meaning behind it?
Untitled: To be honest, I chose the name initially because I did not want a name. Although it was still a name, which makes no sense at all. I see Untitled as being a name, which enables me to do anything. Whether that be funny, sad, mad, emotional etc. Some people’s names in my view make them type cast, something that I don’t want to be.
ILG: Your new cd is finally out how long did it take to put the cd together?
Untitled: Not long at all, maybe a few weeks to be honest. Making the music is easy, the problem is convincing people that its worth the money.
ILG: You have alot of big producers on there how did you hook up with them?
Untitled: Mainly via grime forum. One of the great things the forum is good for. Some producers approached me. If I downloaded an instrumental from a producer’s thread and liked it, I would contact them.
ILG: You have a tune called Rape on your cd is it a true story?
Untitled: It is fictional. I enjoy story telling, some of my music is real, other songs stem from dreams that I have. When I wake up I just start writing it down.
ILG: I recently heard a tune of yours on BBC1xtra what has the feedback being since then?
Untitled: Alot more interest from people. More producers are willing to do more work with me. I have more people wishing to spend their hard earned cash on Behave Yourself products. I have to big up Ras Kwame as he has given me a chance. The only thing that hasn’t come out of it is some other Dj’s are still not willing to play my music. Its a shame that you have to get a bring in to get subscription to the big shows. That’s my perception anyway. Imagine, I emailed 80 plus Djs with my tunes, 30 replied back and the rest never acknowledged my email. Its very disheartening when you put in the effort to make a mixtape for release, to help a so called dying scene and then the same DJs that moan about people not releasing anything do not even reply back.
ILG: What is a normal day for you what do you do on a daily basis?
Untitled: I work 8-8 most days. I have been writing my bars at work for the last 2 years. That was until I printed out a bar for radio, the printed copy went to another printer, the top manager had a read and then gave me a good talking to. So now after work, I go home and write. It makes it harder to get things done because I normally don’t get home until 9 o’clock. Overtime is something I need to do as I’m trying to save for a house and a middle class car. I still have to spend time with my family and do all the normal things outside of music. 2 solo releases and a group release does prove that it is still possible so hold tight all the non releasers.
ILG: Air Max 87, 90, 93, 95 or 97s?
Untitled: Don’t even know what ones are which if i’m honest. My Mum goes New York every 6 months and just gets clothes and trainers. Im more of a gadgets man. Duplicators and all that jazz is me!!!!!
ILG: What are your views on bootleggers can they be stopped?
Untitled: They can’t be stopped, nor would I try to stop them. They serve their purpose. I saw Misconceptions on some Ukraine blog. I had no clue what they were saying but that’s still a good look. My music would of never reached that far. The only thing I would say is that if you like someone’s music at least buy one track if its available digitally. That will still help the artist. Tell your friends about it and help the artist to grow.
ILG: Who do you believe is the best Grime Mc at the moment?
Untitled: To be honest I try not to listen to anyone so that my music stays in its purest form. I did download the latest Logan set though and P Money sounded on form. He’s probably the most consistent at the moment in general terms. Devlin for conceptual music is one of my personal favourites.
ILG: Now you have finished your cd and it is out have you started working on the follow up?
Untitled: I have 2 mix tapes ready to go at the moment. The tune a day thing that I was doing has meant I have a backlog of tunes that need to be heard. I imagine my next release won’t be until March. Im trying to drop something when the likes of M.I.K, Spitter and all them guys drop something. We are pretty much in the same boat. Up and coming mcs that want a chance. It would be good if people like us could all reach radio at the same time and bounce of each other. There’s alot of people that I want to work with next year so I would expect that the tracklisting for Mind Warp 2 will change.
ILG: Usain Bolt or Michael Johnson
Untitled: Mr Bolt, this guy cannot be stopped.
ILG: How did you manage to get a beat off Wiley for your cd and is that beat exclusive to you?
Untitled: I wish it was an exclusive.
ILG: If you got a record deal would you leave Grime and make Pop music?
Untitled: I would do both. At the end of the day I make what I like, when I like. I have a good job so I wouldn’t compromise my creative side just to make money. Music wouldn’t be fun anymore if that was the case.
ILG: What separates your release from others at the moment?
Untitled: I guess that for the general public to decide. In my opinion I think its different to other releases in terms of the concepts that I have implemented. I have tried to appeal to everyone and I think it has worked rather than being all out greeze or too towards the female market.
ILG: What are your plans for 2010?
Untitled: I would like to release 2 solo mix tapes next year and hopefully a couple group releases aswell. Hopefully people like Logan, Spyro etc will acknowledge my work and start to play it. The Behave yourself clothing is also doing alot right now. So its all about getting that into some mainstream shops.
ILG: Big ups
Untitled: You of course for taking the time out to interview me, My Behave Yourself crew, all the DJs that are supporting me, all the people that are actually supporting me by buying my music and all the producers that are giving me beats to work with. I seriously appreciate it!!!
ILG: Who do you think I am?
Untitled: My mate Billy?
Make sure that you go out and support the cause and buy a copy of mind wrap from www.behaveyourselfuk.bigcartel.com also make sure you check out Untitled on Facebook
Name: Elijah
Age: 22
Occupation: Grime Scene Saviour
Ends You Rep: East London
ILG: Is the name Elijah on your birth certificate?
Elijah: Elijah is an acronym so really it is e.l.i.j.a.h
ILG: You are 1 half of the Butterz partnership, is it just you and Skilliam or do you have a bigger team behind the scenes?
Elijah: Butterz is website/label/radio show run by Skilliam and myself. Nobody else, even though I have had input and opinion from loads of different people
ILG: So how did you and Skilliam hook up and create the Butterz project, and are you related or just good mates?
Elijah: We met at Uni, and he was flatmates with my friend so we have rolled since then. Then ‘Butterz’ thing has just developed, there isn’t any outright objectives for us it changes all the time.
ILG: On your last Ustream Show I heard you say that you was going to release a Terror Danjah vinyl, how did you hook that up and tell me more about this?
Elijah: I met Terror towards the end of 2008 in Uptown I and we have just been exchanging ideas for most of the year. He came up on the Rinse shows a couple of times as well. I kind of filled him in about who are the hottest people at the moment, biggest labels etc and was just giving him ideas about the problems I have as a Grime DJ when playing out. I said to him I need a really epic track and he gave me ‘Bipolar’ and I said can I have a danceable track and he made ‘Air Bubble’ a few days later both over the phone. I didn’t even need to test them I sent it to Skilliam the next morning and asked what he thought, he liked them then I said right that’s the first release then. The test presses are back for that now, and the full release will be in January. I want to hear more Grime in these ‘eceletic’ DJs selection. A lot of the time they don’t play it because the good stuff is tucked away on these bullshit mixtapes. i’m not starting the label to try and ‘bring back’ vinyl in Grime in any way
ILG: So have you got any future releases lined up after the Terror Danjah one and are you also going to make the release available digitally?
Elijah: The release will be available digitally. Number 2 and number 3 are sorted. All I can reveal is 003 is a Remix EP. Because I want to bring back remixes man. Like I told Terror to get Swindle to do the Sidechain remix and that is getting a massive response. Anyone that buys the vinyl by the way ill send them the 320 mp3s
That pisses me off having to buy stuff twice, so I wouldn’t do that to anyone else
ILG: So will that be your main focus for next year pushing the label?
Elijah: At the moment, but things have been changing in my life so quickly I cant comprehend what could happen in say 6 months
ILG: You and Skilliam manage to get alot of bookings overseas how do the foreign crowds take to the grime sound?
Elijah: More time anytime we play out when people aren’t familiar with the music just put it in the dubstep category because its a lot of beats in and around the same tempo init
http://verybutterz.blogspot.com/2009/11/dub-infusions-utrecht.html
ILG: How many countries have you had the pleasure of showcasing Grime in?
Elijah: Not even that many bruv. We got Glasgow, Prague and Moscow (TBC) next year though which is a good look. In 09 I did NYC, Amsterdam and Utretcht. Hopefully there will be more soon!
ILG: Do you believe that it is possible to make a full time career from Grime Music and do you currently have a job?
Elijah: For me I can mix a few things that I do and make a decent wage, but not better then what going out and getting a real job would do in the long run, as I have a degree.
ILG: What did you get your degree in?
Elijah: Marketing
ILG: Many Dj’s are also producers have you ever produced or do you have plans to produce in the future?
Elijah: I have never made a beat and never will, my skills are needed elsewhere. I shouldn’t even really be DJing
ILG: What should you be doing then and do you not rate your ability as a Dj?
Elijah: Im good at marketing, I should be marketing this music to brands and the media really. But for now, I have found a niche and I enjoy doing this so much so I will stick with this
ILG: So in a ideal world what will Elijah be doing in 5 years
Elijah: When i’m 27? I see Plastician bought a house on twitter today he is probably about 5 years older then me, so that. Regardless of whether i’m doing music or not.
ILG: Who would you consider to be the best Mc/Dj/Producer at the moment in Grime?
Elijah: MC – P Money / DJ Elijah & Skilliam / Producer Terror Danjah
ILG: What are your views on one night stands?
Elijah: Depends on the woman
ILG: Expand on that answer do you mean if she is on it you are on it?
Elijah: Nah I mean if she is good to go, knows what the deal is then why not? Just use protection init
ILG: What are your views on Uk Funky?
Elijah: I like some of the music, but I don’t really enjoy the way its played. I haven’t heard a lot of quality stuff lately either. Been hearing pretty much the same stuff all year. Nothing is coming close to Geeneus ‘Crackish’ if that’s funky
ILG: Vinyl or Cd, and what was your first vinyl purchase?
Elijah: I don’t even know what was my first record, I bought records before I had decks just because I knew I would never get a legit copy
ILG: What do you prefer to mix on though vinyl or cd?
Elijah: I haven’t really had a run mixing all vinyl really because i’ve only been DJing 18months so CD has always been standard, so I would say CD. But if vinyl used more in Grime still I would probably say vinyl!
ILG: Air max 87/90/93/95 or 97?
Elijah: Only air bubble I deal with is the tune coming out on Butterz. I wear dunks, air forces and whatever I get free haha
ILG: What are your views on illegal downloads?
Elijah: If you don’t think its worth paying for, don’t pay for it, if you really enjoy it, buy it.
ILG: What was the last thing that you downloaded?
Elijah: I bought a Jackie Chan film called Drunken Master from iTunes to watch on my Ipod when I went to DJ in Holland. But I get sent tunes every day, loads, so I accumulate and listen to loads of music.
ILG: If there was a Lord Of The Decks what Dj’s would you send for?
Elijah: Nobody there all my friends
ILG: 2010 is fast approaching what would you call the anthem of 2009?
Elijah: Next Hype. Nothing has come close to that
ILG: What Artists/Producer do you predict to have a big 2010?
Elijah: Hopefully anyone that has been working hard in 2009 can reap the benefits. Producers that will do well are Swindle as he should have stuff out on a variety of labels that will give his music a new audience. Terror has got something coming on Hyperdub as well which again will give him a new market to push Grime to. Artist wise I just want the music to be heard wider. 2008 again there were so many great tunes, but not enough outlets for them to be heard.
ILG: Chipmunk made some outrageous comments aimed at Grime Dj’s what did you think of that and what do you think of him now?
Elijah: I didn’t take it personally as I had no involvement in his development. But if I did, I would of been disappointed. It’s none of my business what he does, same way it’s none of his business what I do. Im sure he is a decent guy, but he is just lost in mainstream music world.
ILG: Talking of mainstream music do you believe that a real Grime song will ever make the National Top10?
Elijah: I don’t think anyone has made a genuine attempt for a long time. Tunes can’t hit the top 10 on mixtapes with videos 3 months after the CD has come out
ILG: I take it you are not a fan of mixtapes am I correct?
Elijah: Not really, they are pretty pointless for anyone in the top 25 artists. They should focus on strong singles, and albums
ILG: Do you think that anyone in Grime has delivered with a strong single or album?
Elijah: Of course otherwise I wouldn’t play the music
ILG: Have you ever spat lyrics or considered being an Mc?
Elijah: No, this world does not need more MCs!
ILG: My debut single is almost ready will you spin it on your show?
Elijah: If the beat is nang you have probably got a chance. Beats always come first on our show. Most lyrics go over peoples heads anyway
ILG: What even if it is a SUPER SKENG BUTTERZ SPECIAL?
Elijah: Hearing someone else say my name on a crap beat would be a par. The beat would have to be a go
ILG: Ian Wright or Gabriel Batistuta?
Elijah: Ian Wright is one of my favourite people that ever existed. He is the reason I support Arsenal
ILG: Will Arsenal ever be successful again with Arsene Wenger in charge?
Elijah: I hope so its £45 for a nosebleed seat
ILG: Who introduced you to Grime?
Elijah: The radio. Got to remember this music didn’t have a name for a good 3 years say I can’t remember what I used to refer to it as, But I suppose people say… did you listen to Roll Deep last night Even in What You Call it which was made in 2004 he doesn’t say Grime?
ILG: Do you think Grime is the correct name or do you think it is a name that creates negative attention?
Elijah: Name is irrelevant to me you know. Could of been called something else, but it would still be the same thing, with the same problems. Only thing that is frustrating is when people think all that music on Channel Aka is Grime
ILG: Big ups:
Elijah: Big up Skilliam and all the Grime Djs. The producers and the MCs. Everyone needs to work together more!
ILG: Who do you think I am?
Elijah: Your somebody that does not have work in the morning or a girlfriend that lives in your house because its late and your Mrs would be telling you to get off the pc and weigh her in lol it’s 3am
Make sure that you follow Butterz on Twitter and check out the Butterz blog on a regular basis for updates on the future releases and make sure you catch the Butterz radio show on Rinse.FM
Name: SIR SPYRO
Age: 23
Occupation: ???
Ends you rep:E12. MP E15 STRATTY
ILG: Why the name Spyro, did you like the game Spyro The Dragon that much?
SPYRO: You know what this is gonna sound so funny. I have been mixing from a young age and cos my record bag was almost as big as me I could never carry it properly always switching arms and sum 1 come out with I looked like Spyro The Dragon when I carry my records, the names stuck on me ever since
ILG: How did you become the tour Dj for Tinchy Stryder what is the story I thought it would have being a Dj from Ruff Sqwad?
SPYRO: I became Tinchy’s tour Dj because they was looking for a Dj that would be there for every tour date, basically just someone consistent and Dj Begg was more focused on his football (BADMAN BALLER) and Scholar is a busy guy 24/7.
ILG: Do you get to wile out and have a mix for the crowd to hear or is it a set track list for you to spin?
SPYRO: OF COURSE!!! in between the acts I give them some grime for there ears and in tinchy’s show I have my own input that we both agree on to add stuff to the show so yeh man always giving them sum of Spyro’s crazy imagination lol
ILG: How old was you when you first got decks and what was your first vinyl?
SPYRO: I was 14 when I got a pair of technics 1200’s and I was I think 12 when I first started spending my dinner money on records lol
ILG: If you find out your girl has denchers would you leave her?
SPYRO: hahahahahahahahaha ur killing it
ILG: If there was a Lord Of The Decks who would you send for?
SPYRO: I would send for Mak Ten, Slimzee and of course Dj Ez because they were the lord of the decks when I was growing up. If it was now times I don’t think I would send for anyone.
ILG: P-Money or Ghetto?
SPYRO: I hate it when people ask me this question so I aint gonna answer it cos there both my mates and if I say one it’s wrong lol
ILG: Who is more important the MC/DJ/Producer?
SPYRO: When it comes to a question like this, then we are all as important as each other what people don’t relise is that we all need each other in some shape or form example mc needs a beat, Producer might need a Mc on a beat and the Dj needs the both of them for hosting etc, so yeh we all need each other!!!!
ILG: I saw you checking out Amelle at 1xtra Live her batty was looking firm did you get the digits?
SPYRO:ha ha ha ha she’s a very nice looking lady but business is business and I aint trying to affect that.
ILG: If my memory is correct im sure you was in a crew called Kamikaze, Was you?
SPYRO: Yeh I was in the crew called kamikaze with Killa K, Offkey, Beastie, Skips, and B Marvel…
ILG: What are you views on illegal downloads?
SPYRO: I don’t understand why people do it cos it aint hard to sign up to itunes and just make a little purchase now and again, who can’t afford 79p? lol
ILG: What was the last thing you downloaded?
SPYRO: the last thing I downloaded (copped from itunes) is Rhiana Russian Roulette.
ILG: Do you think that Grime will ever get a UK #1?
SPYRO: I bloody hope so, cos so many artists have come through the doors by doing grime first.
ILG: Alot of your tunes are in demand will you be making any releases any time soon?
SPYRO: yes yes yes.. Dok’s document cd is dropping first then we are going to put together a cd that will have 20 tracks. 1 million %
ILG: Vinyl or CD?
SPYRO: Nothing will beat the feel of a mix with vinyl. The thing is cos I use cdj’s now some people seem to think that I don’t own a pair of technics still… lol
ILG: Many Grime fans would consider you to be 1 of the Top 3 selected Dj’s who would you say are the Top 3 at the moment?
SPYRO: It’s weird cos just the other day I was holding the ariel in to listen to Slimzee on sunday 3-5pm on rinse and now I have this show. I feel happy to think that people think of me as doing well cos there are so many other badboy Dj’s out there and up and coming Dj’s doing what I used to do and that is practice everyday.
ILG: Who introduced you to Grime?
SPYRO: Mak Tizzle
ILG: What is the best Grime set you have ever heard?
SPYRO: Best set I have ever heard is when it was Diesle bk to bk with every badman Dj on Deja Vu and he had North East South West in there and I think that was the first time I heard Trim and I kept rewinding my tdk tape to hear the bars over and over lol
ILG: In your sets you mix Grime and Uk Funky, Many Grime fans hate this and would prefer you to concentrate on Grime what do you have to say to people who believe that as a Grime Dj you should stay away from the evil virus called Uk Funky ?
SPYRO: In my sets I will play the odd one or two maybe but it would not be a carried away ting and do half of my set of funky. On my show u will hear the mix and blend show or a straight grime show depending on how I feel that day but I am concentrating on the Grime more cos that’s the music that made me who I am and I will never forget that.
ILG: What was the first special that you had done for you?
SPYRO: I think the first special I had made for me was a Tu Tuff Crew dub lol I still got it up to this day
ILG: In a average week how many tunes do you receive from producers?
SPYRO: I think about 30 to 40 from all different producers
ILG: Nike air max 87/90/93/95 or 97?
SPYRO: 97s all the way
ILG: What do you think grime is missing? (live events/sets/radio)
SPYRO: It’s missing the events without trouble cos if there weren’t no trouble then it wouldn’t be in the position its in. I could say its what mc’s say but that would be chatting shit cos 50 cent talks about everthing under the sun and he is rich and people look up to him.
ILG: Romario or Kaka?
SPYRO: K A K A
ILG: In 5 years will we have a grime scene?
SPYRO: Yes we will. well I bloody hope so.
ILG: My Debut single is nearly ready, if I make you a special will you spin it?
SPYRO: If it’s banging without a special i’ll play it. I WILL PLAY ANYTHING THAT’S BANGING!
ILG: What are your plans for 2010?
SPYRO: 2010 i’m going in for the kill. I’m on this producing ting again so ur gonna hear more of me and i’m gonna put in 110 % when it comes to Djing on top of all of that i’ll be touring with Strydes so it will be a busy one.
ILG: BIG UPS:
SPYRO: I wanna big up everyone who likes the way I play music and everyone that is inspired to go out there and start playing music whatever they want to play. Also gotta big up Geeneus for giving me a show on Rinse Fm.
ILG: Who do you think I am?
I LOVE GRIME 